Dogs Dressed As Turkeys

It seems a lot of people like to make their dogs part of everything they do, even holidays.  These photos are a few from a  costume contest to find the best "dog dressed as a turkey".      You have to wonder if the dogs are trying to figure out what's going on.   Too bad they can't talk and express what's really going through their heads.  

November is Senior Pet Month

“Celebrate senior pets!” Since November is National Senior Pet Month, we are urging all of you pet lovers to acknowledge, embrace, and truly celebrate our mature pets…they’ve earned it!


You may not realize it, but 35% of pets in U.S. households are senior pets. Like humans, the pet population is aging but the good news is they are aging gracefully.

Adult pets are living longer, and better. You can thank amazing advancements in veterinary care, and healthier pet lifestyles. It is up to you, however, to recognize your older pet as a senior.

Admit your puppy is no longer a puppy, but an adult or senior pet.

It really is important to take your pet to the vet at least twice a year for senior wellness exams. Write down a list of changes you may see in your pet and share them with his veterinarian. Some may be quite subtle, (like sleeping more or losing interest in toys) some more obvious, ( loss of appetite) but regardless share them with your vet. There may be certain tests or diagnostics your vet may want to perform that are specific to seniors.

Those of us who have older pets have created special, long-term bonds. It is not to say those who have younger pets have not, but this is your month and opportunity to re-connect with your older pet.

Senior pets who’ve been a part of the family for years may not be the attention grabber they used to be in the family. They still need to know they are appreciated and not taken for granted. Give them extra walks or belly rubs at the end of a busy day. They’ve given you so much, it’s time for pay back.

As your dog ages from adult to senior, you may notice some changes and special requirements that need to be met. Knowing what to expect can better prepare dog owners to deal with their new senior pet.

When is my dog considered a senior?

Most dogs are considered "senior" at around 7 years of age. This number may be higher for small breed dogs and slightly lower for large breed dogs. For information on how to better estimate your pet's age in comparison to human years, please read Dogs and People - What is the Age Comparison?


What changes can I expect as my dog becomes a senior?

• You may first notice changes in your dog's activity level. Similar to people, elderly dogs may not have the same amount of energy they once did.

• It is common to see weight changes in your senior dog. With the change in your senior dog's activity level, metabolic changes could result in weight gain or loss.

• Many diseases are more prevalent in senior dogs. These diseases include, but are not limited to: dental, heart and kidney disease; as well as diabetes, arthritis, cancer and cognitive function disorder. The following symptoms are common signs that your senior pet may be ill: Increase thirst or urination - bad breath - difficulty climbing stairs or jumping up, and/or increased stiffness or limping - excessive panting or barking - confusion or disorientation - changes in skin and hair coat. For dogs with arthritis you will want to look into hip & joint supplements.

• If you notice any of these symptoms you should have your senior dog checked out by your veterinarian.

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month

Local shelters have a variety of animals available for adoption; all ages, sizes and shapes, but which one will be right for you?


What is a Senior?

Depending on the breed of animal you are looking at, a pet is considered a senior around age 7 or 8. Giant breeds, such as Great Danes are considered senior at 5 while a Chihuahua would be senior at 9 or 10. Cats generally live longer than dogs, so their senior years would be about the same as the Chihuahua. But your veterinarian or the shelters veterinarian would be able to give you an accurate reading on the pet you are considering adopting.

Why adopt a Senior?

A senior pet can be considered a ‘take home pet’. You take them home and they fit right into your life. There is less chance of chewing and housetraining issues, they can be left alone longer than a puppy, require less vigilance in supervision. And best of all, they are grateful for a second chance, they truly appreciate the forever home you will be giving them.

Where can I find a Senior?

Get out to your local shelter and see who is ready to go to your forever home

Home Sweet Home

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE PETS, THIS IS A TRUE STORY. FOR THOSE THAT DON'T, IT IS A TRUE STORY.

The following was found posted very low on a refrigerator door.

Dear Dogs and Cats: The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.

The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Racing me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.

I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort, however. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other, stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out on the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.

For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom! If, by some miracle, I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge in an attempt to open the door. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years - canine/feline attendance is not required.


The proper order for kissing is: Kiss me first, then go smell the other dog or cat's butt. I cannot stress this enough.

Finally, in fairness, dear pets, I have posted the following message on the front door:


TO ALL NON-PET OWNERS WHO VISIT AND LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT OUR PETS:


(1) They live here. You don't.

(2) If you don't want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. That's why they call it 'fur' niture.

(3) I like my pets a lot better than I like most people.

(4) To you, they are animals. To me, they are adopted sons/daughters who are short, hairy, walk on all fours and don't speak clearly.



Remember, dogs and cats are better than kids because they:


(1) eat less,

(2) don't ask for money all the time,

(3) are easier to train,

(4) normally come when called,

(5) never ask to drive the car,

(6) don't smoke or drink,

(7) don't want to wear your clothes,

(8) don't have to buy the latest fashions,

(9) don't need a gazillion dollars for college and

(10) if they get pregnant, you can sell their children!

24 Common Plants Poisonous to Pets

Pet-owners know that dogs and cats often have a penchant for eating strange things. Cats may gravitate toward plastic or wool, and many a dog will chew on whatever it can get its chops around. And then there are plants. Whether garden plants, houseplants, plants in the wild, or flowers from the florist–plants can provide a tasty and tempting diversion for animals, one that can be at odds with your pet’s health.

In order to prevent poisoning by cut flowers or house plants, avoid placing toxic ones in your home where pets may be able to access them. Or better yet, avoid buying flowers and plants that are known to be toxic. Outside is trickier, especially if your dog or cat has a wide range to roam.

For dogs, the animal science department at Cornell University suggests adding bran flakes to his food or switching her diet to one higher in vegetable fibers to deter cravings for vegetation. The only other thing to do is to watch your dog’s behavior when walking outside, and try to prevent them from munching on vegetation unless you knowit is harmless. When you see symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, difficult breathing, abnormal urine, salivation, weakness, and any other abnormal condition, take your dog to the veterinarian because it may be poisoned.

You can use this list, which has been compiled using information provided by Cornell University and the ASPCA, as a guide to what plants and flowers to keep your eyes open for. The list is by no means exhaustive, there are a number of other toxic plants, but this covers the top offenders. (For a complete list, visit the ASPCA website.)

Aloe Vera

Great for burns, toxic to cats and dogs. Who knew? If you keep an aloe plant on hand for burns, make sure to keep it out of reach for your pets.

• Symptoms: Vomiting, depression, diarrhea, anorexia, tremors, change in urine color.

Amaryllis

Pretty, common as a garden ornamental, and a very popular potted bulb for the holidays…and toxic to both cats and dogs. Be careful with the bulbs, they contain the most toxins.

• Symptoms: Vomiting, depression, diarrhea, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, anorexia, tremors.

Azalea/Rhodedendron

Not only toxic to cats and dogs, this popular garden staple is also dangerous for horses, goats and sheep–and ingestion of just a few leaves can cause serious problems.

• Symptoms: Acute digestive upset, excessive drooling, loss of appetite, frequent bowel movements/diarrhea, colic, depression, weakness, loss of coordination, stupor, leg paralysis, weak heart rate and recumbency for 2 or more days; at this point, improvement may be seen or the animal may become comatose and die.

Baby’s Breath

This sweet filler of many a floral arrangement seems innocent enough, but not so innocuous when it comes to your pet’s digestion.

• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea.

Begonia

This popular garden and container plant is toxic to both dogs and cats. The tubers are the most toxic part.

• Symptoms: Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.

Carnations

The carnation isn’t the most poisonous of the bunch, but it’s ubiquity in floral arrangements makes it one to keep your eye out for.

• Symptoms: Mild gastrointestinal signs, mild dermatitis.

Castor Bean

Not in everyone’s garden or bouquet, but castor bean plant is a popular landscaping plant used in many parks and public spaces. Watch out for it on those dog walks.

• Symptoms: abdominal pain, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, weakness and loss of appetite. Severe cases of poisoning can result in dehydration, muscle twitching, tremors, seizures, coma and death.

Chrysanthemum

The smell of chrysanthemum is enough to keep me away, but dogs and cats may still be drawn to it. It’s not likely to cause death, but it is a popular plant and can cause quite a bit of discomfort. In certain cases, depression and loss of coordination may also develop if enough of any part of the plant is consumed.

• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, dermatitis.

Cyclamen

These pretty flowers are popular in the garden and in pots–and they are toxic to both cats and dogs. The highest concentration of the toxic component is typically located in the root portion of the plant.

• Symptoms: gastrointestinal irritation, including intense vomiting. Fatalities have also been reported in some cases.

Daffodil

Most people aren’t going to let their pet chow down on pretty daffodils, but who knows what may happen when you turn your back. These harbingers of spring are toxic to cats and dogs; the bulbs being the most toxic part.

• Symptoms: Vomiting, salvation, diarrhea; large ingestions cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors and cardiac arrhythmias.

Gladiola

Although gladiolus are great in the garden, they are more popularly used in floral arrangements–since it is the corm (bulb) that is most toxic to dogs and cats it may not present much of a problem, but still…

• Symptoms: Salivation, vomiting, drooling, lethargy, diarrhea.

Hosta

If you have shade in your yard, I’m guessing you have a host of hostas. Am I right? I’ve seen many hostas unbothered by dogs and cats, but the plant is toxic to both–so make sure your pet doesn’t have a taste for them.

• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, depression.

Ivy (California Ivy, Branching Ivy, Glacier Ivy, Needlepoint Ivy, Sweetheart Ivy, English Ivy)

I really can’t see a dog or cat approaching a wall of ivy and begin munching away, but then again, some of the things I have heard about pets eating have really surprised me, so…be warned. Ivy foliage is more toxic than its berries.

• Symptoms: Vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, diarrhea.

Lilies

So lovely, so fragrant, so dangerous to kitties! Members of the Lilium family are considered to be highly toxic to cats, even when very small portions are ingested. Many types of lily (Tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, Easter, Stargazer, Casa Blanca) can cause kidney failure in cats. Curiously, lilies are not toxic to dogs.

• Symptoms: Kidney failure.

Milkweed

For the sake of the monarchs I really hope you will plant milkweed in your garden, but…dangit, it’s quite toxic to dogs and cats. (You can help monarchs in other ways, though: First Aid for Butterflies.)

• Symptoms: Vomiting, profound depression, weakness, anorexia, and diarrhea are common; may be followed by seizures, difficulty breathing, rapid, weak pulse, dilated pupils, kidney or liver failure, coma, respiratory paralysis and death.

Morning Glory

It somehow doesn’t surprise me that morning glory can cause hallucinations–and although cats on catnip are cute, cats and dogs experiencing rubber reality? Not so much.

• Symptoms: Gastrointestinal upset, agitation, tremors, disorientation, ataxia, anorexia, hallucinations.

Oleander

Being a native of southern California, I’ve known forever that oleander is pretty, and poisonous–but I never knew how severely it could affect cats, dogs, and even horses. All parts contain a highly toxic cardiac glycoside (much like digitoxin) and can cause a number of problems.

• Symptoms: Colic, diarrhea (possibly bloody), sweating, incoordination, shallow/difficult breathing, muscle tremors, recumbency, and possibly death from cardiac failure.

Poinsettia

“Beware the poinsettia,” pet-owners have been told ad nauseam. But guess what, they are totally over-rated in toxicity! The ubiquitous holiday decoration may cause discomfort, but not the alarming panic that has been described. Read Can Poinsettias Kill Your Cat? for more about the Poinsettia myth.

• Symptoms: Irritating to the mouth and stomach, sometimes causing mild vomiting.

Pothos

Not the most toxic plant on the list, but it’s such a popular houseplant that is should be noted that cats and dogs can both have adverse reactions to chewing or ingesting it.

• Symptoms: Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.

Sago Palm

If you live in a temperate region, chances are that you have sago palms around. They are a very popular landscaping plant, and also do double duty as a popular bonsai choice. They are apparently very tasty to animals, and unfortunately highly toxic–all parts are poisonous, but especially the seeds.

• Symptoms: Vomiting, melena, icterus, increased thirst, hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, bruising, coagulopathy, liver damage, liver failure, death

Tomato Plant

Is there anything better than the smell of tomato plants on your hands after you’ve picked fresh tomatoes? Not so for your dog or cat. Although tomato plants probably won’t prove lethal for your pet, they can provide a good dose of discomfort.

• Symptoms: Hypersalivation, inappetence, severe gastrointestinal upset, diarrhea, drowsiness, CNS depression, confusion, behavioral change, weakness, dilated pupils, slow heart rate.

Tulip/Narcissus

It’s the bulb of the tulip and narcissus plants that have the highest concentration of toxins. This means: if you have a dog that digs, be cautious. Or, if you are forcing bulbs indoors, make sure they they are out of reach.

• Symptoms: Intense gastrointestinal irritation, drooling, loss of appetite, depression of the central nervous system, convulsions and cardiac abnormalities.

Yew

The bark and leaves of this very popular evergreen provided the basis for the cancer-treatment drug, paclitaxel–but general ingestion of any part of the tree (except the flesh of the berry) can be very dangerous to animals. Horses have an especially low tolerance to yew.

• Symptoms: Central nervous system effects such as trembling, incoordination, and difficulty breathing. It can also cause significant gastrointestinal irritation and cardiac failure, which can result in death.

Tainted Pet Food Linked to Rare Salmonella Infection

The news about these studies hit all of the news services and health organization sites today.

Young Children and Elderly,  Are at Risk of Salmonella Infection From Direct or Indirect Contact With Pets

Aug. 9, 2010 -- Pet food can be a source of salmonella infection, and millions of families, particularly young children, may be at risk of becoming sick if pet food is not properly handled and stored in the home, according to research conducted by the CDC and several state departments of health.



Human salmonella infections linked to dry pet food had not been reported prior to a three-year outbreak in 2006-2008. Overall, Salmonella enterica causes 1.4 million illnesses and 400 deaths every year nationwide. Although the most common source of human infection is ingestion of contaminated water or food, infection can also occur through direct or indirect contact with pets.



One type of Salmonella enterica is called Salmonella Schwarzengrund, which is not common and accounts for only 0.4% of all human salmonella infections per year. Federal and state researchers examined a multistate outbreak of Salmonella Schwarzengrund that occurred from 2006 to 2008. They conducted one case-controlled study to evaluate household exposures to pet food and a second study to examine the risk factors for transmitting salmonella among children. In the United States, 37% of households have dogs and 32% have cats, and many pets are fed dry pet food, which includes animal ingredients such as liver, beef, or fish.



Researchers compared households where there was a case of infection to geographically matched households where there was no infection.Participants were interviewed and also filled out questionnaires about their contact with animals, use of pet food, brand of pet food used, and pet-feeding practices.


Salmonella in Pet Food

Among the researchers’ findings:

• More than 23,000 tons of dry dog and cat pet foods from more than 100 different brands were recalled during the time covered by the study.

•Of patients infected during the time of the study  nearly half, 48%, were children aged 2 or younger. Symptoms included bloody diarrhea and fever. Some patients were hospitalized. No deaths were reported.


• Illnesses among infants were significantly associated with feeding pets in the kitchen, but, interestingly, there was no association between salmonella contamination and children putting pet food in their mouths. Illness in case households was strongly associated with contact with a dog.


• The results were published in the September issue of Pediatrics and were released today online.

The researchers note that dry pet food has a long shelf life and that Salmonella may have remained in some households even after the pet foods were recalled. According to the report, since 2006 the FDA has announced at least 13 recalls of 135 pet food products due to salmonella contamination.

The authors recommend that pet owners and their families regularly wash their hands after interacting with pets and pet food products and routinely keep a pet’s food and water bowls cleaned and disinfected. The bowls should not be cleaned in the same kitchen sinks or bathtubs where children are bathed, the researchers said, because of the risk of cross contamination.

Facts released in the reports:

*Salmonella, a food-borne illness, can be serious in infants and the elderly.

*The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that contact with pets and contact with the pet's environment -- their bed and where they eat and sleep, for example -- can result in human infections

*Feeding pets in the kitchen quadrupled the risk of illness.

*Bacterium multiply either on the floor of the kitchen, or people don't clean their dog bowls

*Studies emphasize the importance of washing your hands whenever you deal with anything from a pet, including petting them, touching their mouth or cleaning up after them , especially for children and elderly whose immune systems are weak in comparison to most adults.

*An important precaution is to have well-packaged, well-stored pet food, keeping it out of the reach of infants and toddlers,.


To reduce infection risks at home, they also recommend:

_washing hands after contact with pets, pet food and pet bowls.

_routinely cleaning pet food bowls and feeding areas.

_keeping children younger than age 5 away from pet food and feeding areas.

_cleaning pets' food and water dishes in a separate sink or tub, not in the kitchen or bathtub.

_avoiding bathing infants in the kitchen sink.

Important Points To Consider Before Adopting

Although you can find the perfect companion at local shelters, getting a pet should never be an impulse decision. Careful research and planning are essential, since being responsible for the happiness and well being of your pet requires more than just providing adequate food, water, and shelter. Potential pet parents should consider and agree with the following points before adopting a dog:


1. ANIMALS ARE NOT DISPOSABLE!

• Dogs are thinking, feeling creatures. They bond deeply with their families, and they deserve the same devotion from you.

• Bringing a pet into your home should be a life-long commitment, which can easily be 10-15 years.

2. PROTECT YOUR PET'S HEALTH AND SAFETY!

• Prepare for costs associated with basic and emergency veterinary care, quality food, and supplies.

• Don't be guilty of "dog storage" by leaving your dog in the back yard 24 hours/day. Exercise your dog daily and make him your companion.

• Spay or neuter for long-term health & happiness. This not only makes a better pet, but can also prevent certain types of cancer.

• Insure that your dog is properly identified with a tag, tattoo, or micro-chip. At a minimum, always have your dog wear a collar with an ID tag.

• Obedience train your dog. Training helps you to better communicate with your dog, strengthens the bond between you, & insures that your pet will be a canine good citizen.

3. CHOOSE THE RIGHT DOG FOR YOUR HOME

• Consider apartment pet restrictions, space, and outside access if you are gone all day.
• Pay attention to allergies.
• If travel and job relocation is an issue for you,

then it is also an issue for your pet. Your commitment means making arrangements to provide quality care while you're away, or to insure that the transition to your new home is as easy as possible.
• Some large dogs may be too strong or active for small children. Small dogs may be too delicate for active children.
• Sometimes puppies and children don't mix. All puppies chew and mouth. It is a by-product of teething. Careful supervision and education is essential. Nipping is also normal puppy behavior and should be discouraged, but should not be considered aggressive behavior.

4. TEACH YOURSELF & FAMILY ABOUT PETS

• Educate yourself about pet care before you adopt. Responsibilities such as feeding and bathing, cleaning up feces, and walking are all part of caring for your pet.
• Take some time to understand dog behavior and develop realistic expectations. Many books and videos are available on the subject.

5. MAKE SURE THE DOG YOU CHOOSE SUITS YOUR LIFESTYLE

• All dogs require daily exercise; however, active dogs require daily rigorous exercise, such as running, or interaction with other dogs. If you are not up to the task, choose a dog with a calmer, less active temperament.
• Someone in the home should be designated the primary caretaker, so the pet's daily needs do not become lost in the shuffle of busy schedules.

Remember, careful thought and planning before adopting will spare the animal the stress of being returned, and will insure your pet and your family a long and satisfying life together. If you are confident that you are ready to add a four-legged member to your family.

Summer Care Tips for You and Your Pet

Summer is a time for both you and your pet to enjoy the sunshine and outdoors, but along with the fun, the season also offers up situations that can endanger your pet. By taking precautions, you can decrease the chance that disaster will happen. The HSUS offers these tips for pet owners to keep their furry friends safe this summer.


Never Leave Your Pet in the Car

In nice weather you may be tempted to take your pet with you in the car while you travel or do errands. But during warm weather, the inside of your car can reach 120 degrees in a matter of minutes, even if you're parked in the shade. This can mean real trouble for your companion animals left in the car.

Dogs and cats can't perspire and can only dispel heat by panting and through the pads of their feet. Pets who are left in hot cars even briefly can suffer from heat exhaustion, heat stroke, brain damage, and can even die. Don't think that just because you'll be gone "just a minute" that your pet will be safe while you're gone; even an air-conditioned car with the motor off isn't healthy for your pet.

To avoid any chance that your pet will succumb to the heat of a car this summer, be sure to play it safe by leaving your pet cool and refreshed at home while you're on the road. And if you do happen to see a pet in a car alone during the hot summer months, alert the management of the store where the car is parked. If the owner does not return promptly, call local animal control or the police department immediately.

Don't Put Your Pet In the Back of a Truck

It is very dangerous, and in some states illegal, to drive with a dog in the back of a pick-up truck. Not only can flying debris cause serious injury, but a dog may be unintentionally thrown into traffic if the driver suddenly hits the brakes, swerves, or is hit by another car. Dogs should ride either in the cab (in a crate or wearing a seat belt harness designed for dogs) or in a secured crate in the bed of the truck.

Watch Out For Fertilizers and Deadly Plants

Summer is often a time when people fertilize their lawns and work in their gardens. But beware: Plant food, fertilizer, and insecticides can be fatal if your pet ingests them. In addition, more than 700 plants can produce physiologically active or toxic substances in sufficient amounts to cause harmful effects in animals.

Stay Bite-Free

With people and dogs spending more time outside, dog bites are likely to increase in the summer months. Spaying or neutering your dog reduces the likelihood that he will bite and provides many other health benefits.

Pet Care 101

Make sure your pet is always wearing a collar and identification tag. If you are separated from your pet, an ID tag may very well be his or her ticket home.

Check with your veterinarian to see if your pets should be taking heartworm prevention medication. Heartworm disease, which is transmitted by mosquitoes, can be fatal in both dogs and cats. Another summertime threat is fleas and ticks. Use only flea and tick treatments recommended by your veterinarian. Some over-the-counter flea and tick products can be toxic, even when used according to instructions.

Water Wisdom

Pets and pools can equal disaster. Prevent free access to pools and always supervise a pet in a pool. Provide plenty of water and shade for your pets while they're enjoying the great outdoors so they can stay cool.

Travel Tips

If you plan on traveling with your pet during the summer, take the time to prepare for your furry friends in advance. Many airlines have summer pet embargoes, and most trains and ships do not allow pets other than service animals. The HSUS has information on traveling with your pet that may make the difference between a pleasant trip and a vacation nightmare.

If You Can't Stand the Heat...

Pets need exercise even when it is hot, but extra care needs to be taken with older dogs, short-nosed dogs, and those with thick coats. On very hot days, limit exercise to early morning or evening hours. Keep in mind that asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet's paws. Pets can get sunburned too, and your pet may require sunscreen on his or her nose and ear tips. Pets with light-colored noses or light-colored fur on their ears are particularly vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer.

Your pet can suffer from heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These conditions are very serious and could cause your pet to die. You should be aware of the signs of heat stress, which could include heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.

If your pet does become overheated, you need to immediately lower his body temperature. Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water over his body to gradually lower his core body temperature. Apply cold towels or ice packs to your pet's head, neck, and chest only. Let your pet drink small amounts of water or lick ice cubes. Most importantly, get him to a veterinarian immediately.

Play It Safe

Don't take your pets to crowded summer events such as concerts or fairs. The loud noises and crowds, combined with the heat, can be stressful and dangerous for pets. For your pet's well being, leave her at home. Be especially aware of these threats during holidays.